Drivers have been warned to expect delays as a major improvement project begins today on the Over roundabout near Gloucester.

The county council says it is taking steps to ensure there is as little disruption for drivers as possible during the 18 week scheme but some hold ups are inevitable.

The roundabout is one of the busiest junctions for commuters in the county and a key point of entry for Gloucester.

The county council says the £2.756 million improvement scheme will increase the capacity of the roundabout, help relieve congestion, save commuters time and allow traffic to flow smoother.

Work will continue until August and has been organised so that no road closures will be in place during peak hours.

Once completed, the A40 Over roundabout scheme aims to reduce delays on the A40 east-west and the A417 north-south approaches.

Crews will widen the westbound and southbound approaches; adding a third lane within the roundabout; building new retaining walls and putting in upgraded LED lighting.

The total investment of the A40 Over roundabout scheme is £2.756 million. £2.23 million has been provided by GFirst LEP, £406,000 investment from Highways England and a further £120,000 from S106 Developer contributions.

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways, said: "On the back of our success with Elmbridge last year, I'm really excited to start this scheme. I think it will make a great difference to commuter's journey and the wider road network. I'd like to thank people in advance for their patience whilst we carry out these improvements. We'll be doing all we can to reduce disruption and ask people to bear with us whilst this much needed work is being done."

Cllr Phillip Awford, county councillor for the Highnam division, said: "I'm delighted that we're now starting this vital work on one of Gloucester's busiest commuter routes that connects many businesses in the county. This scheme will have a huge benefit on the surrounding communities of Maisemore and beyond - by alleviating the pressure along the A417. Whilst we know there will be disruption and diversions, I ask that you please bear with us while we carry out this essential work."

Cllr Pam Tracey, county councillor for Hempsted and Westgate, said: "I'm very pleased that the work on Over Causeway is coming to a close and that we are able to begin this vital work on the A40 Over roundabout. This is a vital route for residents of Gloucestershire and these improvements will have a significant benefit to those that rely on this route."

Crews will begin preparing the site for works from Monday 30th April. There will be no lane closures between 7am - 9:30am and 3:30pm - 6pm throughout the scheme.

All daytime works will be completed using lane closures with the roundabout remaining open. There will be expected delays but access will still be possible.

Road Closures:

A40 East (between Longford Roundabout and Over roundabout) will be closed overnight from 15th May to 1st June between 7pm - 6am.

A417 North (approach to Over from Maisemore) will be closed overnight from 5th June to 13th June between 7pm - 6am.

Resurfacing of the roundabout will take place over two weekends in August (4th - 5th and 11th - 12th August). Road closures will be in place from 7pm Friday evening through to 6am Monday morning. Please note that further restrictions will be in place during the resurfacing of the roundabout but access will be maintained where possible.

For more information visit: https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/A40-Over